First Day Warm Ups

We thought about the following...

For each of the following problems, first estimate an answer and then try to calculate an answer using your mathematical skills.

1. When was one million seconds ago? How about one billion seconds ago? For more on this problem, click here.
2. Suppose a string were tied tight around the earth. If one additional meter were added to the string, and the string was lifted the same distance off the surface of the earth, how high would it rise? For more on this problem, click here.
3. If a piece of paper could be folded in half fifty times, how high would the stack of paper be? For more on this problem, click here.

If you're interested in how we name large numbers, click here.

HW:

• Sign up for a wikispaces account by clicking here.
• Cover your text book.
• Read the course methodology and come to class prepared to discuss it (a copy is available on the home page of this website).
• Give the parent/guardian letter to your parent/guardian (again, a copy is available on the home page of this website).
• Please complete this student information sheet (you won't be able to submit this unless you have all information- including a wikispaces username, parent email address, and textbook number).